In a way, our skin acts as our third kidney, detoxifying our bodies. When we exert ourselves, not only do we sweat to cool our bodies, but we also increase blood flow, which releases toxins. Though it may not be so great on silk blouses and stair climbers, sweat is something you need to do regularly -- not just because of the cardiovascular and fat-frying benefits of exercise, but also because of its body-cleansing function. By the way, we can generate as much as a gallon of sweat in two hours.

The human body is covered with sweat glands and we sweat to regulate our temperature if we’re too hot; we also sweat when we are anxious, nervous, or stressed. Two places we notice sweating are the palms of our hands and the soles of our feet.

There are very few methods humans can use to get rid of chemicals from the body: pooping, peeing, exhaling, and sweating it out. In us humans, sweat glands are known mostly to help regulate temperature by bringing warm moisture to the surface of the skin, which causes cooling as the water evaporates. But the secondary role as detoxifier is not a minor role. Known as the 'third kidney,' your skin has over 2.6 million tiny pores that can help clear as much as 30% of bodily wastes through perspiring. Sweat is composed mostly of water, but also has urea (a breakdown product of proteins the kidneys also discard), and trace metals and minerals.

Although experts believe sweating is mostly for temperature regulation, it has been shown that trace toxins do appear in sweat glands. Some evidence does suggest that the ability to sweat and excrete toxins like mercury will increase with repeated use of exercise or sauna.

Sweating is the body's way of staying at a consistent temperature. Specifically, sweat works as a coolant for the body as it is released on the skin. As the sweat evaporates, the body's temperature is lowered.

This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.